Band Members

How many Russian metal bands do you know? I’m sure you can Google some, but really… Sweden, Finland, Canada, even France, but not that big cold mother Russia. Hell I Feel is the first thrash metal band that was born in Soviet Union.
The music industry in Russia is completely dominated by pop music and hip-hop. To avoid the typical death of a metal band, HIF had to leave the country. Santa Cruz is now a new home for this progressively rising group.
“We are here because music is in our hearts and we cannot let the Russian music industry take it away from us,” says Vlad (guitar/vocals).
Touring in the U.S., mostly on the east coast, Hell I Feel has already earned recognition and success. Talent and dedication fueled by a different mentality crossbred a unique sound that has already inspired many die hard fans to get band tattoos. More t-shirts, bumper stickers, and positive feedback (be it myspace or media reviews) appear after every show.  “Every time we practice, random people stop by to say hello and watch us play for a while,” says Mike Rude, the drummer.
“It feels good when people who can’t name more than three metal bands say they like our music,” interrupts Steve Hawkins (guitar/vocals).
Right now HIF has released a new EP, “Between Death and Dying”, and is booking shows at local venues. Currently, they are working in the studio on a full-length album that is soon to be released, entitled “Dialogue With Death.”  It is very hard to jump-start the band in a new area but they are optimistic about California’s music audience and have faith in their craft.

Hell I Feel was born in Stavropol, Russia. Mike and Vlad went to the same high school where they started a thrash metal project. Multiple shows and competitions proved that the band had high potential. The metal scene in Russia was not very promising and they decided to move to US.

HIF earned a good reputation and recognition in NC, VA, D.C., MD, IL and is now headquartered in a bunker near San Francisco. Don’t miss the opportunity to see them live!